For Lifelong Health, Put Pet Wellness First

Most pet owners see their pets as bona fide members of the family – a perception that, fortunately, leads to providing them with the best possible care. Undoubtedly, this means seeking out veterinary care when it’s needed the most. But there’s more to pet wellness than just the necessary vaccinations and young pet examinations.

Your pet deserves lasting health, a goal easily supported by routine screenings and disease prevention.

Proactive Versus Reactive

The old adage if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it applies to so many things in modern life, but when it comes to pet wellness the opposite is true. It’s common to seek out medical attention only when absolutely critical, as in the case of a sudden illness or injury, but for the fullest, healthiest life, routine exams are essential for responsible pet owners.

While we cannot prevent an accident from occurring, The Bluffs Pet Clinic can help to stop developing conditions before they get out of hand. When we see your pet regularly, we’re able to screen for, diagnose, and treat potential problems. Not only does this lead to a better prognosis, this process can save you from costly emergency treatments down the road.

What to Expect at Pet Wellness Exams

Animals age faster than humans, making yearly or bi-annual veterinary examinations very important. Overall prevention is our guide, but stopping or slowing the effects of disease play important roles as well.

A complete physical exam typically leads to the following:

• Dental examination (assessing bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, loose or missing teeth, etc.)
• Immunizations as needed for your pet’s age and lifestyle
• Blood test to detect heartworm
• Fecal analysis

Your pet may seem completely healthy, but common diagnostics can reveal illness early. Lab work is an integral part of routine visits, and the results allow us to intervene early and successfully.

Additionally, we take the opportunity to discuss protection against parasites, nutritional needs, behavior, and weight management. Taking the time to address your questions and concerns is also a top priority during pet wellness exams.

Thoughts on Reproductive Health

Some pet owners erroneously believe that an intact pet is healthier, but spaying or neutering your pet can add an extra layer of health. Pets that undergo this minor surgery are less likely to develop certain types of cancer and have lower incidences of other reproductive health problems. Finally, spayed or neutered pets are less likely to roam, which minimizes the chance of loss or injury.

Golden Oldies

Thanks to modern veterinary advances and dedicated owner involvement, we have the collective ability to monitor a pet’s health from infancy through the geriatric years. Pet wellness care means different things for a puppy or kitten than a senior pet, and together we can contribute to lifelong health, happiness, and safety.

Pet Wellness at Home

A vital component of ownership is observing any changes, however subtle, at home. Animals mask illness, so it’s a good idea to check your pet out at home on a daily basis. Grooming, dental care, and physical activities can be a part of this, as well.

If we can assist you with questions or concerns, we invite you to call us. Together, we can have a significant impact on your pet’s health, happiness, and longevity.